The racket that carries through partition walls undermines day-to-day life in countless homes. At Malmö University, researcher Håkan Wernersson is exploring a surprising avenue: a metal screw that reduces sound transmission without adding an insulating layer. Tested in the lab and then in a hair salon, the “Sound Screw” cut noise by nine decibels—enough to catch the construction sector’s attention. The concept promises space and cost savings, while further trials still need to validate its long-term performance, even as interest is already spreading from Japan to South America.
An everyday problem that knows no borders
Who hasn’t endured the noise of an overenthusiastic neighbor? Between thudding footsteps, drawn-out conversations, and music turned up too loud, these sounds often impose themselves on us. Beyond mere irritation, they erode quality of life, especially in cities where homes share walls. A new avenue is emerging, however, to curb these disturbances over the long term.
A simple screw, but a technological breakthrough
At the heart of the innovation is an idea developed by Håkan Wernersson, a researcher at Malmö University. Nicknamed the “Sound Screw,” this modest metal piece leverages a new principle: capturing and dissipating vibrations right at their source to neutralize most transmitted noise. Early lab tests show reductions of up to 9 decibels, a notable step forward in the fight against noise pollution.
Promising tests and real-world applications
Far from a mere concept, the screw has already been tested in a hair salon, an environment rich in ambient noise. The verdict: a clear improvement in acoustic comfort. Applied to apartments or terraced houses, the promise is clear: easing relations between neighbors without resorting to thick, bulky insulation layers.
Beyond cutting noise, the technology frees up valuable floor space. By doing away with heavy partitions, projects no longer sacrifice room and can optimize interior layouts—an appreciable advantage in urban settings.
Potential that’s winning over the construction sector
With such advantages, the “Sound Screw” is already drawing interest. Companies in South America and Japan have reportedly positioned themselves to integrate it into their projects. The appeal is clear: the solution is cost-effective, eco-friendly, and easy to adapt to different worksites in the construction sector.
- Measured noise reduction
- Space savings thanks to the elimination of insulation layers
- Potentially lower costs in construction and renovation
It also meets a growing demand for noise-control solutions, especially in increasingly dense urban areas.
An innovation at the start of its journey
Despite these early successes, the “Sound Screw” remains in its initial phase. Broader test campaigns will need to confirm its performance in varied environments and over time. If the results hold up, this small piece of metal could transform the management of noise pollution and bring more peace to everyday life.
John is a curious mind who loves to write about diverse topics. Passionate about sharing his thoughts and perspectives, he enjoys sparking conversations and encouraging discovery. For him, every subject is an invitation to discuss and learn.
